The Original Factory Shop announces CVA Proposal

3 July 2018

Private equity firm, Duke Street, has said that it will give The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) a £10 million cash injection deal and write off the chain's debts to help, subject to cost reductions for TOFS. Additionally, a CVA Proposal has been launched, with intentions to shut 32 stores (10%) and reduce rents of the remaining 92 – as rent is a big barrier for the retailer. The company believe the CVA will leave them in a better position to deliver their new growth plans.

Earlier this year, The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) reshaped their management team, as new boss Emma Fox took on Former B&M Operations Director, Carl Allen as Chief Operating Officer and Steve Cooke as Chief Finance Officer, following his leave from Hornby.

Turnover for TOFS went up in the year to date April 2017, however, their financial position this year shows a fall in pre-tax profits by just over £1.5 million. In the last year, retailers have faced a lot of pressure due to altered consumer shopping habits. This, as well as stock impairment, is believed to explain the drop. This led to the announcement of plans to shut several stores. Following this, the insurance company, Euler Hermes pulled their credit insurance.

This again looks like a Landlord only CVA where the landlords are asked to allow rent reductions and store closures in order to ensure the company survives. Suppliers will be asked to continue to supply even though they have had their credit insurance withdrawn.

Just a quick note to say a big thank you to all the staff at KSA, our CVA was passed today by creditors voting in an overwhelming number including HMRC to accept the proposal as prepared by KSA.

The road to reach today’s conclusion has been bumpy, but at each stage your team has supported and guided us through the issues and we have reached a very satisfactory outcome to the benefit of customers, staff, all creditors and shareholders.